Dr. David Gazzaniga

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Orange County

Dr. David Gazzaniga is a highly respected sports medicine surgeon with an extensive background in caring for athletes of all levels, from recreational players to professional sports stars. A former highly recruited football player, Dr. Gazzaniga’s passion for sports and injury care began early in his life. He chose to play college football at Dartmouth College, where he also pursued his medical education, laying the foundation for a career that blends athletic expertise with medical excellence.

Elite education and advanced training

After completing medical school at Dartmouth, Dr. Gazzaniga went on to train in orthopedics at Harvard University, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of musculoskeletal injuries. His journey continued at the world-renowned Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, where he specialized in sports medicine and treated professional athletes from elite organizations like the Denver Broncos (NFL) and Colorado Rockies (MLB). It was here that he refined his expertise in managing complex sports injuries at the highest level.

Experience with professional sports organizations

Dr. Gazzaniga’s career then took him to New York, where he served as a consultant for the NY Jets and the Head Orthopedist for the NY Islanders. His work also extended to the world of professional tennis, as he was an attending physician at the US Open, in addition to caring for Olympic athletes, UFC fighters, and other high-profile sports figures. His experience in treating world-class athletes equipped him with invaluable insights into both injury prevention and rehabilitation, allowing him to deliver unparalleled care to his patients.

Upon returning to California with his wife and children, Dr. Gazzaniga focused on his practice and raising his children. He was then blessed to be approached by the LA Chargers, who invited him to serve as their Head Team Physician. This role continued for 7 years until the team moved their headquarters to El Segundo, and now is a consultant. He continues to provide expert care to athletes at all levels, ensuring that elite professionals as well as local recreational players receive the best possible treatment and recovery options.

A personal connection to athletics

Dr. Gazzaniga’s involvement takes on a very personal component as well. His oldest son excelled in both football and lacrosse at the collegiate level, his two daughters participate in Division 1 water polo, and his younger sons are continuing their football journeys. One of them has earned a spot as a quarterback on the University of Alabama’s football roster, marking the beginning of an exciting collegiate career.

Dedicated to athletes at every level

Dr. Gazzaniga’s commitment to sports medicine is rooted in his belief that all athletes, whether playing for love or at the professional level, deserve the best care. He takes pride in treating individuals at every stage of their athletic journey—from weekend warriors to aspiring pros—and is dedicated to helping his patients recover, perform, and thrive with a comprehensive, personalized approach to sports medicine.

• Division Chief Of Sports Medicine at Hoag Institute
• Board-Certified with CAQ in Sports Medicine, Triple Fellowship-Trained”